06 Mar 2016

The education sector cannot cope without  involvement of development partners, says the Minister of Education and Skills Development Dr Unity Dow. Dr Dow said therefore partners such as the First National Bank Botswana (FNBB) Foundation and Camphill Community Trust need to be commended for sowing in the sector. 

The minister expressed this on Friday during the ground breaking of P2.81 million worth of hostels and dining hall to be built by FNBB Foundation for Camphill Community Trust in Otse on Friday. 

She said the partners are helping the government to care for learners with special needs hence the government does not want such partners to despair. 

Minister Dow said when the ministry fails to cater for some groups in the mainstream education system, partners such as Camphill and FNBB come in to assist. 

“FNBB donation is indirectly going to the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, thank you FNBB for indirectly contributing towards my budget,” added Dr Dow.  Dr Dow said the donation speaks to the ministry’s strategy as it addresses issues of equitable access, dignity, improve leaners outcome and strengthen skills development. 

 FNBB Foundation Board Trustee, Ms Myra Sekgororwane said the foundation has played a pivotal role in the country’s education sector and they are proud of the accomplishment. 

Ms Sekgororwane said the donation will address concerns of accommodation at Camphill’s Legodimo Training Youth Training upon completion. 

 She pointed that the building will give the learners a sense of comfort, hope and sense of belonging. 

Ms Sekgororwane added that FNBB Foundation was established in 2001 and FNB contributes one per cent of its profit after tax to the Foundation. 

To date, the foundation has contributed over P34 million to various charitable projects around the country. 

“FNBB stands to support sustainable projects in the country even where the bank does not have a physical representation,” she added.  Camphill Community Trust official, Mr Andreas Groth said the trust used its funds to build a hostel three years ago and they have been looking for sponsors to build another one to address learners’ accommodation needs. 

Mr Groth said the FNBB Foundation had been very supportive to their efforts adding that the foundation had in the past donated two combis, built a hall and provided food for the trust. 

Camphill Community Trust in Otse, in the south east district equips people with disabilities with life skills. Ends